# Math Help - Finding parallel unit vector

1. ## Finding parallel unit vector

Problem: A unit vector parallel to vector V = (2, -3, 6) is ?

Answer is (-.29, .43, -.85)

Thanks. I thought to find a parallel vector you have to multiply through by the same number, so I chose the answer (-2, 3, -6)

2. ## Re: Finding parallel unit vector

Originally Posted by benny92000
Problem: A unit vector parallel to vector V = (2, -3, 6) is ? Answer is (-.29, .43, -.85)
Find the length, $\|V\|=\sqrt{2^2+(-3)^2+6^2}=7$.

Now divide $\left\langle {\frac{2}{7},\frac{{ - 3}}{7},\frac{6}{7}} \right\rangle$.

There is your parallel unit vector.

3. ## Re: Finding parallel unit vector

Ok, and can the length be -7, as well? As in divide through by -7 to find the right answer? That is what my book says, so I just wanted to verify this.

4. ## Re: Finding parallel unit vector

Originally Posted by benny92000
Ok, and can the length be -7, as well? As in divide through by -7 to find the right answer? That is what my book says, so I just wanted to verify this.
Length is never negative.
However, dividing by $-7$ also gives a unit vector parallel to the given vector.